Relationships are more commonly sparked online today than ever before. Almost 30% of Americans have tried online dating sites or apps, according to a Pew Research Center study released in 2019. It was before the global pandemic forced even more online interactions. Globally, 323.9 million people were using dating apps in 2021, up from 198.6 million in 2012.
Online dating has many benefits. Many people prefer chatting online over face-to-face interactions. Many people realize that their relationships are incompatible, whether online or offline. Relationship experts explained when it’s appropriate to end a virtual relationship and how to do it with care.
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The Right Time To Break Up Online
Carmelia Ray, a celebrity matchmaker and online dating expert said breaking up virtually should be the last resort, depending on how long the relationship has been going. A serious relationship is typically on the verge of ending when Ray notes that the writing is on the wall.
You shouldn’t keep your significant other in hope when you can’t see them in person due to finances or lack of opportunity, so you should break up with them as quickest as possible, so they don’t hang onto hope.
The Right Way To Say It
Although it can be scary to tell someone you plan to break up, it is considerate to say to them before you meet up or talk to them, even if it is long-distance. It gives them control over their choices and values their consent over time. Ray advises explaining why you are breaking up virtually and the specific reasons why you are doing so.
Mistakes Are Easy To Make
It’s okay to apologize for hurting your ex by choosing the wrong breakup method. It may be necessary to apologize if you feel that breaking was not your intent, but you later realize it resulted from your actions. Before taking that step, the first question you must ask yourself is, “Who are you apologizing to?”
Image Credit: Shutterstock/Antonio Guillem
Take The Time To Learn New Things
Founder of Men to Heal and psychotherapist James Harris says you must look for lessons after a breakup. He said, “You might then decide, ‘Oh, I need more than just a conversation. I need in-person interaction in future relationships.'” Ray suggests setting clear ground rules about what you expect from the relationship before starting a romance to have a more seamless breakup if the relationship fails.